Coming Back!

By Ana Elisa Gallegos, this button-down vest is a men's classic. She transforms alpaca into a design of perennial appeal. In black with gray undertones, baby alpaca is the fine fleece from the season's first shearing.

Meet the Artist

Gift Selections

"My work is the art of expressing myself through apparel. It's my passion. I love new ideas."

"I was born in the beautiful city of Arequipa on February 28, 1977. My parents were very responsible and taught me respect, values, and to never give up in times of adversity.

"But while I was still in school, I became a fan of fashion and of the innovative designs that were being developed around the world. That's when I decided to begin experimenting with my own designs in alpaca wool, as it is a very fine fiber and is perfect for high fashion apparel.

"I was always an adventurer and I began traveling to learn the different fashion trends, the learning process enriched by the warmth and lifestyle of each place I visited. I decided to combine this knowledge with the magnificent experience of knowing people so different in language and customs but so similar in friendship and human values.

"I don't consider myself a fashion designer, but I accept that it's important to merge apparel design with the particularity of each person. Alpaca wool plays an important role in these designs, as it is one of the finest fibers in the world.

"In 2000, I began developing designs for sweaters, cardigans and dresses of alpaca to offer to the world. My project was a success and these designs were well accepted. It all began as a family workshop when I married and decided to export alpaca apparel with the help of my husband.

"I realized that alpaca wool had been used for centuries in Peru and that the designs were usually created for tourists who visited the country, designs with a traditional style. However, I thought that such a fine fleece could be used in more modern apparel – casual and elegant.

"I was only 21 or 22 when I began. I was really young to have my own design workshop and when I'd go to buy alpaca yarns, the shopkeepers almost never paid attention to me. They treated me like a girl sent to buy knitting supplies. But today my textile workshop has become one of the most important in Arequipa.

"More than just a way to earn a living, my work is the art of expressing myself through apparel – thoughts, feelings, emotions. It's an ability to give identity to the wearer through clothing. I find motivation in the excitement of seeing an idea become a sketch, and a sketch become apparel, then seeing the smile of the person who chooses my designs or receiving a note from someone who likes my work. It's my passion. I love new ideas.

"I want my designs to carry a message – that elegance and distinction can be found in anyone who feels good about herself. My philosophy is simple, to offer only apparel that can satisfy the most demanding shopper. It's exciting to be able to show you my designs through Novica where we can see the faces of the artisans. I like to imagine what their lives are like, their homes and families. It's an honor for me to be one of them.

"The most important challenge in my life is also the most beautiful – to be a mother."